Motorcycle Tours in India
If we had to give motorcyclists one piece of advice on how to enjoy motorcycling in the best possible way, it would be to go on a long-distance motorcycle tour. And we are not talking about a brief 150-kilometer ride or a weekend getaway to the countryside, but a multi-day tour to a place where you have never ever been before – Keeping an open mind, no matter what comes your way and plan an itinerary that suits your riding style. This way, life will show you what delightful experiences are in store for you.
In fact, motorcycle touring is marvelous in many ways. To begin with, there is an excitement to travel and visit distant destinations, experience different and diverse cultures, savor authentic cuisines, as well as meet new people. And aside from adventure, motorcycle touring is also about discovering new and vibrant locales and becoming acquainted with different philosophies of life.
In India, you can experience this while riding through valleys, plateaus, deserts and forests. You get to know the rich cultural legacy all while enjoying the beauty of the panoramic landscapes.
And of course, motorcycle touring through India dazzles with its diversity of cultural offerings. In fact, the charm and the fascination that can be found in the land of this Asian subcontinent are instantly noticeable – You will be captivated by its beauty that will leave an indelible memory into your soul.
So, if you are one of those keen motorcyclists who would rather be on their beloved motorcycle than anything else in this world, we have listed some of the best motorcycle tours in India with their detailed itineraries as well as essential information to plan your journey. Keep on reading further for an in-depth guide.
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How to plan a motorcycle tour of India
A motorcycle tour of India will mesmerize your soul – from the magnificent temples and palaces, aromatic tea and spice plantations to the exquisite cuisines served in the breathtaking landscapes. Featuring thousands of years of rich legacy, cultural diversity and an amazing wildlife, the country is a fascinating destination in many respects. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the world-famous monuments such as the Taj Mahal, a motorcycle tour of India is renowned for leaving riders captivated with its delightful scenic contrasts.
In fact, there is hardly any other country in the world that is so rich in cultural diversity and where historical and contemporary values are equally cultivated.
Surprisingly, nearly 1.4 billion people live on around 3.3 million square kilometers of land in between the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and Cape Comorin (where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet). No wonder that the experience of riding a motorcycle in this country is incomparable!
When you start planning a motorcycle trip to India, the first question that almost always comes up is: About how many days should I devote to my motorcycle trip and how much time would be enough?
The temptation to explore all four corners of India in a single trip is obvious. However, it is best to avoid falling into this trap. India is not a nation where you can travel at 150 miles an hour. So, by taking your time, you can follow your natural desire, get to know the surroundings at your pace, and make connections with the people who cross your path. Besides, one can spend a whole year in this country and still not see it in entirety!
Plus, not everyone has the luxury of having that much time on their hands. So, if you really want to immerse yourself in the country and explore some of the best regions, it is recommended to plan for at least a 2-week long motorcycle tour of India.
And it’s equally important to decide on an itinerary that best suits your taste. Decide which regions and sights are at the top of your list and which are optional, basis which you can plan a perfect motorcycle trip.
What is the best time to plan a motorcycle tour of India?
The best time to plan a motorcycle tour of India varies greatly depending on the part of the country you wish to visit. This is because climatic conditions differ from one region to another, owing to its enormous vastness. So, it is best to time your trip according to the region you intend to visit.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the best time to plan your motorcycle tour based on each of the regions.
Northern India
Northern India is characterized by a subtropical climate and the weather changes significantly throughout the year, with a strong difference in temperature between summers and winters. Summers are extremely hot in northern India as the maximum temperature can reach around 45°C. However, starting October till the first week of March, the weather is quite pleasant in this region with an average temperature of around 34°C.
The months of December and January are particularly coolest with an average temperature ranging around 10 to 25°C. So, owing to this pleasant atmosphere, motorcycle touring in these months is quite ideal.
Southern India
The climate of southern India remains hot and humid throughout the year, characterized by an average temperature ranging between 25 to 34°C. And unlike the northern part of India, southern India exhibits less variation in temperatures between summers and winters. However, monsoon in this region is quite significant; the onset of rainy season can be expected from early June, and until October the weather is characterized primarily by humidity and lots of downpours.
Thus, the ideal time to commence a motorcycle tour around southern India usually begins once the monsoon subsides at the end of September or early October.
Western India
The best time to commence a motorcycle trip around the western region of India starts from October and remains till the first week of March. During these months of the year the weather is perfectly suitable for a round trip as the temperature ranges from 15 to 30°C.
Summers usually start from the month of March and continue until the month of May or June which is then followed by the monsoon season. And this rainy season continues from June to September, characterized by very heavy downpours in July and August.
Eastern India
With moderately warm days and cold nights, the climate in eastern India is much kinder. However, it is during the months of May, June and July that you will find a lot of riders in particular visiting Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh for both adventure as well as leisure.
Himalayas
The best time to embark on a Himalayan motorcycle tour begins from May and remains till the last week of September or the first week of October. Thereafter, you can expect heavy snowfall until March.
And while rest of the India experiences monsoon in the months of June, July and August – these particular months are considered the most ideal for touring in the Himalayas.
7 Best Motorcycle Tours of India
Ladakh Motorcycle Tour
A motorcycle ride through the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh is widely recognized as one of the most adventurous motorcycle tours in the world. In fact, it’s amongst the first destinations you would come across while looking for some of the most treacherous routes to test your skills.
Owings to its difficult accessibility, scarce population, and hostile climate, the valleys and the landscapes of this region are almost unexplored. And we are pretty sure that a motorcycle ride on some of these most acclaimed mountain passes will leave you with a very exhilarating experience.
Being the land of soaring mountain peaks, Ladakh is always associated with Leh, its capital city, which is at a height of around 10,000 feet from sea level. To give you an idea, most common exit altitude for skydiving is 10,000 feet! Now imagine this as a base camp for your motorcycle tour.
A motorcycle trip to Ladakh renders you with a sense of peacefulness and calmness. This place is a visual delight to the eyes as the route bustles with monasteries, fluttering colorful prayer flags, vast plains, high mountains, fierce winds, snowy regions, rivers, blue lakes, villages and the modesty of the locals.
In a nutshell, a motorcycle trip to Ladakh allows you to explore the land where earth meets the sky, a ride you won’t experience anywhere else. It is an ideal destination for any motorcycle enthusiast who wishes to improve his/her riding skills and wants to experience the adrenaline pumping through their veins. And if it’s still not included in your bucket list, make sure to include it now!
Price: From $2,990
Rajasthan Motorcycle Tour
Rajasthan, the land of kings, is famous for its historical hill forts and palaces and is open to motorcyclists all year round. On this route you will have the opportunity to see the 200,000 km² Thar Desert and the Aravalli Mountain Range, all while you ride through the rural regions and enjoy the local cuisines that come along your way.
Be it jungle safaris through the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve or the rich heritage of Jaipur and Jaisalmer, there are many experiences that riders can take home with them.
Each city in this vibrant state has its own character and color to showcase. One also gets to learn about the ancient history and legacy of the Rajputs and Nawabs, the main descendants who make up the population of this sandy yet culturally rich state. Plus, there are a number of popular activities such as camel rides in the sand dunes, puppet shows, traditional folk shows and fairs that you can indulge in.
The best way to embark on a motorcycle trip to Rajasthan be it from Germany, France, Australia, United States or any other place in the west is to first arrive at the International Airport of New Delhi. A direct flight from all these countries takes around 8 to 14 hours. Alternatively, you can fly straight to the International Airport of Jaipur, which is the only airport in the state that operates internationally.
Price: From $3,999
Goa Motorcycle Tour
Let the gentle breeze blow around your face as you watch the sunset on the Konkan coast. Ride along the narrow and immaculate routes of this exotic destination that will rejuvenate and relax your body as well as mind.
The mystical views of the Western Ghats, the captivating blue ocean and the winding twists and turns along the way will give you an exhilarating experience. Besides, the scenic route that meanders through the villages makes this motorcycle tour a perfect blend of leisure mixed with adventure.
And although the northern and southern stretches of Goa are equally packed with beaches and tourist attractions, the latter is more suitable for motorcyclists.
The coastal route from Panaji to Palolem is characterized by an endless stretch of forests and mountain ranges that extend out for several miles. And on few occasions, you may even have to take a ferry to reach the other end of the coast. But make sure you include the famous Portuguese fort of Cabo de Rama in your itinerary, nestled on a cliff in the middle of wilderness.
In short, this motorcycle tour of Goa will enchant you with the beauty of nature all along the coastline.
Price: From $3,500
South India Motorcycle Tour
There is no better way to get close to the nature and experience the culture of southern India than on a motorcycle. Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, this evergreen motorcycle tour of Southern India offers everything a rider needs for an amazing getaway.
Southern region of India has everything you need for a fantastic adventure: The weather is good for about ten months of the year, and the region is acclaimed for its backwaters, Ayurveda, beautiful beaches and waterfalls. In addition, coconuts, bananas and spices like black pepper and cardamom thrive here in abundance. Plus, it’s home to many exotic wild life including elephants and tigers.
This route will allow you to visit some of the iconic destinations such as Munnar, Thekkady and Kovalam as you travel through this paradisiacal setting full of genuine Indian traditions, history and charm.
On the way, you will pass through rich tea and coffee plantations, as well as scenic backwaters and beaches that will enrich your motorcycling expedition.
In fact, a typical day in southern India begins with a joyful ride through the evergreen orchards and ends by witnessing sunset across the backwaters. So basically, a motorcycle tour of southern India is an ideal choice for anyone looking for an intimate affair with nature!
Price: From $3,499
Spiti Valley Motorcycle Tour
The mountainous valley of Himachal Pradesh in northern India is truly a paradise on earth with snow-capped mountain peaks, beautiful lakes, dense forest and endless landscapes. In fact, it is the most preferred region among motorcyclists who wish to traverse through the lower Himalayas.
While riding through this scenic valley, you can discover ancient Buddhist villages, mystical landscapes and breathtaking mountain ranges. In addition, you get a chance to witness the strong religious sentiments of the locals associated with the Himalayas, something that makes this place sacred and extraordinary. Moreover, this valley boasts some of the highest mountain ranges in the world.
As you ride around, you will be able to visit places like Tabo, Kaza, Chandra Taal and Kunzum La – a high mountain pass (14,931 ft.) in the eastern Kunzum Range of the Himalayas.
All in all, you can experience the unique diversity of culture and landscapes of this serene Himalayan region on a Spiti valley motorcycle tour.
Price: From $2,499
Uttarakhand Motorcycle Tour
The land of the gods, a paradise on earth, and the eternal home of nature. Yes, such is the jewel of India, known as Uttarakhand. And it is the home of the Himalayas, where the innate faith of man comes out the strongest. The beauty here can be seen sometimes in the form of rivers and sometimes in the smiling green mountains.
And no matter what country you come from or what religion you believe in, your goodness and benevolence will flourish as soon as you set foot on the soil of this beautiful land.
On this motorcycle tour of Uttarakhand, you will be enthralled by the scenic view and the divine elements of this region. The towns are surrounded by the beauty of Ganges, that will fill you with its magnificence, surely something you will carry with you back home as an unforgettable experience.
Price: From $3,099
Golden Triangle Motorcycle Tour
Last but not least we have the Golden Triangle motorcycle tour of India, which, by the way, is the most popular route among international travelers (not just riders) who wish to experience the country’s rich heritage, architecture, and diverse culture by exploring three beautiful states of northern India.
This route connects India’s capital New Delhi, majestic Agra and the magnificent city of Jaipur, delivering a blend of adventure, leisure & luxury.
The trip begins in the bustling streets of Delhi and heads to the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra before continuing to the pink city of Jaipur.
So, you can start your tour with a visit to Delhi’s Jama Masjid, a dome amidst the chaos of old Delhi market. Next, make your way through the maze of street vendors to the famous Chandni Chowk, where a plate of “Spicy Chaat” is a must try. Post which, you can either visit the Red Fort, which was the main residence of Mughal dynasty, or the Eternal Flame in Raj Ghat, which burns next to the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.
In the second phase of this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the most famous wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal. This immaculate white marble mausoleum was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife and is a true wonder.
And after your visit to Agra, you will continue to ride towards Jaipur, the gateway to the state of Rajasthan and an outstanding example of India’s opulence, tradition and rich culture.
Price: From $3,599
Best Motorcycle Touring Routes in India
| DESTINATION | RIDING DISTANCE | RECOMMENDED ROUTE | TOUR DURATION | RIDING DIFFICULTY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ladakh | 1400 Kilometers | Leh - Hunder - Turtuk - Pangong - Leh - Tso Moriri - Tso Kar - Leh | 09 Days | Advanced |
| Rajasthan | 1880 Kilometers | New Delhi - Mandwa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Pushkar - Jaipur - Agra - Delhi | 12 Days | Intermediate |
| Goa | 1150 Kilometers | Panaji - Dandeli - Badami - Hampi - Jog Falls - Palolem - Panjim | 11 Days | Easy |
| Kerala | 1255 Kilometers | Kochi - Kumily - Munnar - Kodaikanal - Palakkad - Ooty - Thrissur - Vypin Island - Kochi | 12 Days | Intermediate |
| Spiti Valley | 855 Kilometers | Manali - Tirthan - Sangla - Chitkul - Tabo - Kaza - Chandra Tal - Jispa - Rohtang La - Manali | 09 Days | Advanced |
| Uttarakhand | 1300 Kilometers | New Delhi - Ramnagar - Bhowali - Sitla - Binsar - Dunagiri - Pauri - Kanatal - Mussoorie - Rishikesh - Delhi | 15 Days | Advanced |
| Golden Triangle | 990 kilometers | New Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - New Delhi | 08 Days | Easy |
Things to eat while touring in India
Indian dishes are more than just hot curries or a bewildering combination of spices. In fact, what is commonly referred to as ‘Indian Cuisine’ is a culinary fusion of all the different cultures that the Indian subcontinent boasts. These different cuisines are influenced by religious, social, geographical as well as historical factors.
Nevertheless, there are some dishes that you will surely appreciate throughout your motorcycle trip.
Chicken Biryani, for example, is a meal that is available all over India and is therefore frequently served by both restaurants and food joints to fellow motorcyclists. It is made with marinated chicken and ‘Basmati’ rice (an exotic type of rice) and is seasoned with coriander and garam masala (a blend of Indian spices), making it a must-try dish.
Another cuisine that is quite popular in India and relished by every rider on their tour through the country is Butter Chicken. And as the name suggests, this dish is actually prepared by using a lot of butter and chicken meat that is marinated overnight with yogurt. This dish is usually served with a soft bread (Naan) that is baked in a traditional Indian oven called Tandoor.
But this is just a start, and there is a lot more you will experience and savor while touring in India. In fact, you will be amazed to hear this, but India is one of the few countries where even staunched meat eaters prefer vegetarian dishes. If you find it hard to believe, it’s probably because you have never tried a Vegetarian Thali – which consists of many different vegetable dishes, savory curries, cottage cheese, pickled potatoes, rice, bread, and flavored yogurt dip, all presented on a really huge plate.
Suggested Reading: 10 Most exciting things to do a motorcycle trip to India
Which motorcycle would be the most ideal for touring in India?
An exceptional, exhilarating and extreme motorcycle tour demands an extraordinary machine as well.
This is why we recommend the Royal Enfield Himalayan for almost all the long-distance motorcycle tours of India, including the northernmost mountainous regions of the country.
Part of the reason for going with the Himalayan is because this motorbike is designed to take on the toughest roads in the world, that too with complete ease.
And although the motorcycle is not equipped with any of the high-end features like the electronic traction control, heated grips, cruise control, satellite navigation or self-adjusting suspension systems, yet it’s simple but reliable powertrain will take you anywhere you ever intended to go.
In addition, its 199-kilogram lightweight body, unbelievable turning radius, low seat height and wide handlebars instill a great deal of confidence among novice riders or in someone who has just started riding on Indian roads.
As a matter of fact, almost all riders who toured with us in the past found the Royal Enfield Himalayan to be absolutely worthy, as it does not dominate or dictate but rather allows the rider to be in full control of the machine.
What do I need to pack for a motorcycle trip to India?
Packing for a motorcycle tour can sometimes leave you very confused: Riders often forget the very piece of equipment that would have served them well on the trip. So be it your mobile charger, cash or a tooth brush, our detailed checklist will help you in keeping track of everything you will need.
Following are some of the essential items that you need to pack for your motorcycle trip to India
- Paper soap
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Hair shampoo
- Cold cream
- Toilet paper
- Sunscreen (SPF greater than 60)
- Electrolyte powder
- Personal medications (If any)
- Nasal spray
- Full face helmet (CE / DOT certified)
- Motorcycle jacket (Waterproof with inner liner)
- Motorcycle pants
- Motorcycle boots
- Motorcycle gloves
- Motorcycle goggles
- Sunglasses
- Thermal wear
- Warm socks
- Cash (Preferably in local currency)
- Credit card
- Smart phone & power bank
- International driving license
- Visa
- Passport
Advice: Motorcyclists planning a multi-day trip should also take a look at our article on long-distance motorcycle touring for an in-depth insight.
Do I need insurance to participate in motorcycle tours of India?
Besides your packing checklist, your insurance for international travel to India is the second most important thing you should consider while planning your adventure trip.
India is more than just a country, it is a world in itself and there are endless escapades that await you starting from ancient monasteries, bustling cities, beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife to authentic regional cuisines. As such, it is important that you are covered with your health and travel insurance at all times so that you can focus solely on this amazing motorcycle trip.
With an international health insurance, you protect yourself from costs that arise due to unforeseen illnesses. Standard insurance policies usually only cover basic medical care and are usually limited to one country. For long-distance travel, such as to India, you may have to cover the costs yourself. This is why it’s important to choose a policy that also covers the region you are traveling to. This will ensure that your health concerns are adequately addressed without you having to pay for anything out of your own pocket.
Advice: It is possible to purchase international health insurance or travel insurance at any time prior to your trip. The insurance coverage starts once you pay the premium and ends automatically at the agreed expiration date. And if you are wondering how much it would cost you, a decent policy that covers all types of accidents or health ailments usually costs around $80 for two weeks of international travel. To be honest, that’s nothing compared to the costs you might have to bear yourself in case you decide to travel without any coverage.
Can a pillion accompany a rider on this motorcycle tour?
There are some regions in India where a pillion can accompany rider without any problems. However, in some regions, especially in the northernmost part of the country, which frankly is quite treacherous, riding with a pillion can be quite difficult.
This is because with a pillion, the handling of the motorcycle changes substantially due to the combined weight of both passengers. This, in turn, affects the weight distribution on the wheels and thus the driving physics. In addition, the front wheel functions less precisely on inclined slopes, which further affects the driving line.
In short, a pillion passenger can accompany the rider on a motorcycle tour if the terrain is not treacherous and does not demand a high level of riding skill.
What are the import regulations for riders traveling to India?
All international travel regulations also apply when traveling to India. However, there are no import duties on personal items such as cell phones, boots, jackets, helmets or action cameras. Also, there are no duties on motorcycle goggles, walkie-talkies, cigarettes (maximum 10 packets), and a single bottle of alcohol.
Do note, however, that valuable items must be officially declared to the authorities before entering the country by filling out the custom declaration form.
Furthermore, the import of certain animals and certain animal products is prohibited. This applies to products from poultry and pigs. Riders wishing to import meat products (from animals other than pigs or poultry) or dairy products must obtain an import permit and a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This certificate must be issued by Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) at least a week before departure.
Note: If you are taking any medications, you should carry a prescription with you when you travel to India. And if you do not already have one, you can obtain the same from your doctor or pharmacy for a small fee. In most cases you will get through customs without any problems if you present such a prescription.
How much money can I carry while traveling to India?
It is prohibited to bring in or take back huge volumes of Indian currency. However, in general, international riders traveling to India can bring in cash issued by the Indian Government and the Reserve Bank of India to a maximum amount of 25,000 Rupees through the airport. For more information regarding currency admittance, visit the Reserve Bank of India’s website.
Likewise, international riders traveling to India are allowed to bring foreign currency. However, if the total value of the foreign currency brought in the form of cash or traveler’s checks exceeds $10,000 or the value of the foreign currency alone exceeds $5,000, it must be declared to Customs at the airport by completing the Currency Declaration Form (CDF) at the time of arrival in India.
Note: The Republic of India’s official currency is Indian Rupee (INR). The smaller unit is paisa, with 100 paisa equal to 1 rupee. There are denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000 rupees (bills), plus, there are coins in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 rupees.
Do I need a visa for India?
All the international riders visiting India to participate in motorcycle tours must apply for a visa prior to their departure from home country. The Indian Visa, also known as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is a digital entry permit. So, anyone who does not possess this document will be denied to check-in or board their flight to India.
Please note that this visa is applied electronically using a digital application form and is also referred to as an electronic visa or e-visa (Click here to see an example of Indian Electronic Travel Authorization).
Do I need a license to ride a motorcycle in India?
You can only ride a motorcycle in India as long as you have your country issued driver’s license along with your international driver’s license. Together, these two documents are the most important records after your passport and e-visa that you should be carrying along with you while riding on Indian roads.
An international driving license for India is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be obtained from any Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India. And in order to get over the documentation quickly, remember to take your passport, visa, your country’s driver license, and an address proof along with you. Usually, the processing time takes around 2 days.
Do I need to take any vaccinations before participating in this tour?
Apart from immunization against the deadly Coronavirus, there are no mandatory vaccinations required by international riders in order to participate in motorcycle touring throughout India.
However, we strongly recommend that you get vaccinated against Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid.
Also note that a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you have been to a country where yellow fever is prevalent before traveling to India. If this is not the case, you do not need to be vaccinated against yellow fever, as it is not normally contracted in India.
How much does a motorcycle trip to India cost?
A motorcycle trip to India is truly a once in a lifetime experience. And the good news is that traveling to India is extremely economical and you can do it for as little as $3000 for a 14-day trip! But do keep in mind that depending on the region, the duration of the trip and the level of amenities you prefer, your budget may vary considerably. So, to avoid any unpleasant experiences, we have listed some of the major expenses to be planned for.
Apart from the tour package you have chosen for your motorcycle expedition, the second most significant expense will be your international flights. To give you an idea, a flight usually costs between $600 to $900 for a one-way trip from United States to India, depending on the airline you choose. At times, flights are cheaper if you book a few months in advance. So, we recommend booking your round trip at least 3 months prior to your travel in order to get the best deals.
In addition, depending on the region, you might spend between $50 and $250 on souvenirs or local artifacts to take home with you as keepsakes.
All in all, a 14-day motorcycle trip to India will cost anywhere between $4200 to $5000, including international air travel, accommodations, meals, local sightseeing and shopping.
Is it safe to participate in motorcycle tours of India?
Indian roads are known for their chaotic traffic. As such, it is highly recommended to be extremely cautious when riding around. This is because Indian drivers often take more risks on the road than most western visitors. So, in general, you need to learn how to deal with unexpected situations. Plus, you will need to find a way to share the road with other motorists as well as bicyclists, pedestrians, and dogs that usually run across the streets.
In a nutshell, not only with motorcycles, but with any vehicle, you may encounter difficulties in the first couple of days while riding on the Indian roads. This is especially true for novice riders, who run a high risk of crashing if they are not used to riding in traffic. Rest assured, a typical motorcycle tour of India is no more dangerous than a leisure tour of the United States under normal conditions. All you need is some patience to learn the art of riding a motorcycle in this Asian subcontinent.
Road traffic rules and regulations in India
Riding a motorcycle in India can be challenging for international riders. Nonetheless, with right information about traffic laws and regulations, you can ensure a safe and secure motorcycle trip. Below we have highlighted some of the basic rules of the road, speed limits and things that are prohibited while riding.
- First and foremost, as a universal rule, anybody who is riding a motorcycle or any motorized vehicle in India must carry a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a no-pollution certificate.
- Second, driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Violators are imposed with a heavy fine as well as imprisonment.
- Third, both the rider as well as the pillion passenger on a motorcycle are required to wear a protective helmet.
- Fourth, please bear in mind that people drive on the left side in India. And in roundabouts you must give way to traffic coming from the right. Also make sure you are switching on your turn indicators to warn other road users about your intent.
- Fifth, you must be familiar with the traffic signs. Click here to know more about traffic signs and their meaning.
- Lastly, keep in mind that that you should only overtake from the right side of the roadway. However, you are not allowed to overtake anyone near schools & hospitals.
How to book your motorcycle tour of India?
India is quite aptly regarded as a paradise for motorcyclists. Every year thousands of motorcyclists travel to this country to embark on a motorcycle adventure. So, if you are planning to book any of our motorcycle tour packages, we recommend that you do so at least 6 months in advance so that you have enough time to plan your adventure and take care of any legal formalities (e.g., passport or visa).
All of our guided motorcycle tours are accompanied by a team of professional group leaders, mechanics and support staff. Rest assured that even an inexperienced motorcyclist can safely reserve a seat with us. In addition, for a private group, we are open to all kinds of customization – be it the number of days or modification in the itinerary, we are open to everything. By doing so, we ensure that each group gets exactly what they have planned for their expedition.
In order to book this motorcycle tour, all you have to do is fill out our pre-booking form. And once you submit this form, one of our designated group leaders will contact you to discuss the next course of action. In short, from the moment you make your inquiry to the completion of the tour, we assure you that your experience will be nothing but positive.
Tips for Touring in India
Although we have mentioned that a motorcycle tour of India is all perfect and exciting, there are certain things you should be aware of while riding in India.
- First of all, you should accustom yourself to the left-hand drive. Keep in mind that the highways are nothing like those found in Europe or the United States. Also, potholes and unpaved curbs are not uncommon. In addition, the density of traffic is vastly different than you are perhaps familiar with in your own country. A proactive and a predictive attitude is essential while riding on the Indian roads.
- If you will be riding in India for the first time, you need to be more cautious. Sometimes the weather can change or you can get stuck in a traffic jam for hours due to unforeseen circumstances, especially in the mountainous regions. It is therefore important that you plan your motorcycle trip wisely and reserve enough buffer time between two destinations.
- On a long multi-day tour, it is especially important to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Do listen to your body and take enough breaks so that you can always maintain a high degree of concentration.
- Multi-day tours can be demanding – muscle cramps and numbness around the hands are not uncommon. So before undertaking any kind of long-distance motorcycle tour, it is highly recommended to engage in some kind of endurance exercise, such as jogging or swimming, to strengthen the neck, upper arms, shoulders and legs.
- While crafting an itinerary, make sure that every detail is carefully thought out. Routes should be chosen to fit your overall experience and they should not be too strenuous or monotonous.
- To get the most out of your road trip, make sure that there are no repetitions of cultural sites or historical places. Likewise, make sure that the route you choose is scenic and that the riding conditions are conducive.
- As far as riding hours are concerned, the recommended riding distance ranges from 200 to 550 kilometers per day, depending on road conditions. That said, it is best not to ride more than 8 hours in a day (try not to overburden yourself with too much riding in a single day).
- Riding in a group is usually more economical, as you can share the costs with your fellow passengers.
- Always stay in command of the situation come what may. Keep a clear head and be patient while riding. At all times, your eyes should be on the road ahead – This will allow you to keep a close tab on other road users and monitor the condition of the road.
- And lastly, do not forget to include basic essentials such as clothing, medications, first aid kit and protective gear in your checklist.
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